Indiana Tragedy: Thera and Dallas Raugh Remembered After Fatal Crash on U.S. 27 in Adams County
ADAMS COUNTY, INDIANA – A tragic car accident in Adams County, Indiana, has left a family and entire community reeling in sorrow after the heartbreaking deaths of Thera Raugh, a devoted mother, and her teenage son, Dallas Raugh. The fatal crash occurred on U.S. Highway 27 and also involved Jeremy Klenke, who is believed to have been traveling in another vehicle during the collision.
The devastating incident happened in the early hours, when emergency crews responded to the scene of a multi-vehicle crash on U.S. 27, just outside of Monroe, Indiana. According to authorities, the collision claimed the lives of 15-year-old Dallas Raugh and his mother, Thera Raugh, both of Decatur, Indiana. Jeremy Klenke, whose involvement in the crash is under investigation, was also pronounced deceased at the scene.
The sudden and tragic loss of Thera and Dallas has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit Adams County community. In the wake of the tragedy, family, friends, classmates, and neighbors have come together to share their heartbreak and celebrate the lives of two individuals who meant so much to so many.
A Mother’s Love and a Son’s Light
Thera Raugh was a loving mother, daughter, sister, and friend whose life centered around her family. She was known for her unwavering devotion to her children, her nurturing heart, and her infectious laugh that could light up any room. Friends recall how she always went above and beyond to ensure her children were supported, encouraged, and loved deeply.
“Thera was the kind of mom everyone admired,” one friend shared. “She was strong, fiercely protective, and never stopped showing up—at every school event, every practice, every late-night talk.”
Her son, Dallas Raugh, was a bright and energetic 15-year-old with a passion for sports, gaming, and his tight circle of friends. A student at Bellmont High School, Dallas was remembered as kind, funny, and full of life. His teachers spoke of his warm smile, eagerness to help others, and his quiet leadership that stood out even without words.
“Dallas was a great friend to so many. He had such a big heart,” one of his classmates wrote in tribute. “It’s hard to imagine school without him.”
The pair shared a bond that was admired by many. Those closest to them described Thera and Dallas as best friends—always together, always laughing, always looking out for each other. Their connection was one of deep love, and their absence is felt profoundly across the community.
Remembering Jeremy Klenke
Jeremy Klenke, also tragically killed in the accident, was a respected member of his own community. Though details of the crash and the relationships between all involved are still emerging, friends of Jeremy have taken to social media to express shock, grief, and remembrance of a man who, according to many, had a good heart and a kind soul.
Community in Mourning
In the days following the accident, an outpouring of grief and love has flooded social media platforms and community forums. Candlelight vigils are being planned, and memorials have been placed near the site of the crash as a tribute to Thera, Dallas, and Jeremy.
The Raugh family is being surrounded by prayers, meals, donations, and heartfelt messages from those who want to ease even a fraction of their unimaginable pain. A GoFundMe page has also been set up to help cover funeral expenses and support the family during this time of overwhelming loss.
Local clergy and counselors have extended services to both the school community and grieving families, recognizing the immense emotional toll this tragedy has taken on young students and adults alike.
A Legacy of Love and Kindness
Though their lives were cut tragically short, Thera and Dallas Raugh leave behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unbreakable family bonds. They will be remembered not only for who they were, but for how they lived—together, joyfully, and surrounded by love.
To all mourning their loss: may you find comfort in one another, strength in shared memories, and peace in the love that Jeremy, Thera, and Dallas brought into the world.
May they rest in eternal peace.